History

EST. 1982

​In 1984, Dance Manitoba presented its first annual Membership Showcase Concert. The Showcase is a unique cost-free opportunity for Manitoba dance schools and amateur groups to gain experience performing in a professional environment.

Gaile Petursson-HileyShelley Shearer-Nelson

1982:The Department of Cultural Affairs and Associated Manitoba Arts Festivals held public meeting that brought dance teachers, choreographers and dancers together to identify and discuss topics of common concern.

1983-1986: The discussion led to the development of Manitoba Association of Dance, an organization to promote dance and dance development in Manitoba. On February 24, 1983 the organization changed its name to Dance Manitoba Inc., when it became incorporated as a provincial non profit organization. For three years, the Annual Manitoba Provincial Dance Festival was run jointly with Associated Manitoba Arts Festivals and in 1986, Dance Manitoba took sole responsibility for its operation.

1984: The first annual Membership Showcase Concert was presented.

1987: Dance Manitoba set up its current office in the historic Pantages Playhouse Theatre. The first organization held its first workshop in Thompson, Manitoba.

2012: The first Manitoba Dance Day was co-presented with Rainbow Stage.

2013: The Membership Showcase expanded into a weekend event called the Showcase Weekend.